Nail polish products are rampant with toxic chemicals which are harmful to human life. Dibutyl phthalate is a frequent chemical found in many nail enamels and is part of what is called the "toxic-trio." This term refers to the three most harmful chemicals found in many popular nail polish brands today. These toxic substances are toluene, formaldehyde (methanal) and DBP (dibutyl phthalate). This article addresses the dangers of dibutyl phthalate.What is DBP (Dibutyl Phthalate)?DBP is short for dibutyl phthalate. This substance is a chemical which has a plastic nature. DBP is often used in nail enamels to keep the polish flexible.DBP - It's dangersFact: DBP is banned in certain countries for use in cosmetic products including nail polishes. Why is that? The reason is because DBP is very dangerous to human health.Cancer Causing:Studies conducted indicate that this toxic substance is a carcinogenic (cancer-causing). Breast cancer can be caused by over-exposure (or pro-longed exposure) to dibutyl phthalate, since this plasticizing chemical is known to disrupt the bodies hormonal system such as the estrogen system. This substance in fact has been discovered to act as weak estrogens, therefore putting women at risk of severe hormonal damage.A MutagenicThis chemical has been linked to birth defects in newborns and has therefore been labelled as a mutagenic. It may also cause neurodevelopmental problems in newborns. Therefore it is of paramount priority for expecting mothers to avoid any exposure to this harmful chemical. Women should completely avoid wearing nail polish containing dibutyl phthalate during their pregnancy. They should also stay clear of beauty salons that use this mutagenic substance in its nail enamels and beauty products.
Other harmsDBP can trigger asthma attacks. This harmful chemical has also been linked to fertility problems. It has been proven that over-exposure to dibutyl phthalate can disrupt the development and proper functioning of reproductive systems in both males and females. This toxic chemical has also been associated with obesity.Reduce your riskYou can reduce your risk of DBP-related disease by ensuring that exposure is kept to a bare minimum. Make sure that your beauty products, including nail enamels, do not contain this toxic chemical. If you are studying the ingredients list on your nail enamels, beware of this chemical being masked under another name. Synonyms for dibutyl phthalate are: Di-n-butyl phthalate, Butyl phthalate, DBP, Elaol, n-Butyl phthalate, 1,2-Benzenedicarboxylic acid dibutyl ester, o-Benzenedicarboxylic acid dibutyl ester and Palatinol C. (synonyms as listed on Wikipedia.com).Natural AlternativesYou can buy natural nail polish without the use of this harmful chemical. In fact, you can buy some natural nail polish products that are completely free of the toxic-trio (DBP, formaldehyde and toluene), you simply have to do your research and look around for healthier brands.Looking in stores at ingredient labels can be frustrating, so you might be more inclined to do your research online for more natural nail polish brands. These healthier alternatives are generally water-based rather than chemical based, so they are better for your body and will minimize your risk of developing chemically-induced cancers and other illnesses.
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